Glacier National Park’s Grinnell Overlook is a classic sunrise destination, drawing hikers from around the world for its sweeping views of alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and one of the last remaining glaciers in Glacier National Park.

At 1 a.m. Justin and his brother woke to drive into the park and make the early hike to the overlook. On the way down, just above Granite Park Chalet, they encountered a curious and friendly deer. The deer paused to stare, “clearly intrigued by us and our cameras. It was one of those rare moments where wildlife and humans just connect,” Justin recalls. After a brief stop at the chalet for a cold glass of lemonade and a slice of homemade pie, they finished the hike with new lifelong memories: both of the incredibly unique sunrise and their new four-legged friend.

Glacier National Park | 2020